The 4 Most Stunningly Scenic Drives in South Carolina

The Palmetto State, South Carolina is a beautiful state home to scenic destinations such as Charleston as well as 21 scenic byways. Among these, four National Scenic Byways run through the state, offering stunning drives rich in nature, culture, and history. Below, explore the four of the most scenic drives in South Carolina.

Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway

Historically, the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway was known as the “Keowee Path” or “Cherokee Path”. This byway follows the route that was once used by Cherokee, as well as European fur traders. It spans over 100 miles in length. Today, the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway acts as an alternative route for I-85 through the state.

Many of the scenic drives in South Carolina are located in the Lowcountry. This region houses many significant water features. This includes salt marshes that are rich in biodiversity. However, the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway routes through the state’s Upcountry, along the Blue Ridge Mountains. Because of this, along this drive, you can see dozens of waterfalls and natural scenes.

Because of its location, this scenic drive provides a unique experience throughout the mountainous region of the state. Along the route, you’ll find several spots worth stopping. This is especially true given its close proximity to several different state parks. Because of the various towns dotting the route, shopping is also popular.

In all, this route may take several hours to drive completely. The average duration is 4 hours. It begins near the North Carolina border, near Chesnee, South Carolina. It then routes southwest, toward the border of Georgia. Here, the byway connects with the Geer Highway near Cleveland.

Edisto Island National Scenic Byway

If you’re looking for a shorter drive than that offered by the scenic Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway, then the Edisto Island National Scenic Byway may be a better choice. Located in the Lowcountry, this drive is only around 17 miles long. However, despite its brevity, this scenic drive has no shortage of impressive views. During the ride, take the time to look for the beautiful waterways of coastal South Carolina, along with beloved features such as maritime forests, live oaks, and Spanish moss.

There is no doubt: South Carolina is famed for its waterfront cities, such as Myrtle Beach and Charleston. These cities boast large intersections, popular tourist locations, and other high-tech features. However, along the Edisto Island National Scenic Byway, you’ll be able to enjoy a quieter, simpler experience in South Carolina. Many of the main sights to see on this drive have been there for centuries. This includes farmlands that have existed since the 17th century, as well as oaks that are hundreds of years old. There are also thousands of preserved acres set aside for historic or wildlife conservation.

The Edisto Island National Scenic Byway begins at the McKinley Washington Jr. Bridge. This bridge is also known as the Dawhoo Bridge. The route then guides you along the island, allowing you to see the beauty nearby to the byway. Then, not even two dozen miles later, the byway ends at the Atlantic Ocean. This offers a short but rich scenic drive in South Carolina.

Savannah River National Scenic Byway

This 110-mile scenic drive will allow you to explore the Savannah River along South Carolina’s western border with Georgia. Beginning in southwestern South Carolina, near Clarks Hill, the Savannah River National Scenic Byway traverses north along the Savannah River, passing by various lakes and reservoirs. It also intersects with the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway before ending in Oakway above Lake Hartwell.

It takes around three hours to travel and enjoy the Savannah River National Scenic Byway. During this scenic ride, you’ll get to see glimpses of the various water features located on the Savannah River. You will also pass several state parks and other areas of interest that may be worth stopping for. Because it intersects the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway, and is near the Andrew Pickens Scenic Parkway, you can easily access other scenic drives in South Carolina as well.

Ashley River Road National Scenic Byway

At only 11 miles long, the Ashley River Road National Scenic Byway is one of the shortest scenic drives in South Carolina. This allows it to be easily incorporated into a single day, along with various other stops and activities. It is one of the oldest roads still in use in the state. Construction began on the road in 1691, being finished three decades later in 1721.

Like the Edisto Island National Scenic Byway, the Ashley River Road National Scenic Byway is located in the Lowcountry. It begins outside of Charleston.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Alexander Lukatskiy/Shutterstock.com